Tools

Tools used for infiltration and espionage are some of the most abundant artifacts related to the ninja. Ropes and grappling hooks were common, and were tied to the belt.^[71] A collapsible ladder is illustrated in the Bansenshukai, featuring spikes at both ends to anchor the ladder.^[76] Spiked or hooked climbing gear worn on the hands and feet also doubled as weapons.^[77] Other implements includechisels, hammers, drills, picks and so forth.

The kunai was a heavy pointed tool, possibly derived from the Japanese masonry trowel, to which it closely resembles. Although it is often portrayed in popular culture as a weapon, the kunai was primarily used for gouging holes in walls.^[78] Knives and small saws (hamagari) were also used to create holes in buildings, where they served as a foothold or a passage of entry.^[79] A portable listening device (saoto hikigane) was used to eavesdrop on conversations and detect sounds.^[80]

The mizugumo was a set of wooden shoes supposedly allowing the ninja to walk on water.^[73] They were meant to work by distributing the wearer's weight over the shoes' wide bottom surface. The wordmizugumo is derived from the native name for the Japanese water spider (Argyroneta aquatica japonica). The mizugumo was featured on the show Mythbusters, where it was demonstrated unfit for walking on water. The ukidari, a similar footwear for walking on water, also existed in the form of a round bucket, but was probably quite unstable.^[81] Inflatable skins and breathing tubes allowed the ninja to stay underwater for longer periods of time.^[82]

Despite the large array of tools available to the ninja, the Bansenshukai warns one not to be overburdened with equipment, stating "...a successful ninja is one who uses but one tool for multiple tasks".^[83]